Add Virtual Network Adapter Windows 11 Link File

pnputil /add-driver "C:\Windows\System32\DriverStore\FileRepository\netloop.inf_amd64_*\netloop.inf" /install

Method 1: Use Device Manager (The Microsoft Loopback Adapter)

Execute the following two commands:

In the right pane (Model), select .

: Click on any category in the list (like "Network adapters") to ensure the menu shows the correct options. Go to Add legacy hardware Manual Selection on the welcome screen. add virtual network adapter windows 11 link

These appear in ncpa.cpl after installation.

Disable-NetAdapter -Name "Ethernet2" -Confirm:$false Enable-NetAdapter -Name "Ethernet2" These appear in ncpa

You can also add multiple IP addresses to the same virtual adapter:

Example: Move vEthernet above Wi-Fi to force traffic through the virtual link first. or routing rules.

Best for testing or when you don’t want a full virtual switch.

B. Install the Microsoft Loopback Adapter (KM-TEST) Use case: create a simple software-only NIC for testing, static IPs, or routing rules.